Our Program

Our Program

Overview

The first thing you will notice at the Hammer Institute is Dr. Hammer’s unique style with patient care. He never rushes the evaluations or follow-up visits. He actually listens to what the patient has to say and cares how they are feeling. It is more about the patient's overall well-being and health than simple lab tests and numbers. The following will describe how a patient at the Hammer Institute goes from their initial interest in anti-aging medicine to starting on a program to achieve their goals.

Intitial Consultation

This is a complimentary 30 minute consult with Dr. Hammer, where the patient expresses their concerns and goals. Dr. Hammer also explains how our program works and whether they are a good candidate. It is an excellent time for both doctor and patient to begin building a trusting relationship and a better understanding of the patients expectations.

Comprehensive Medical Evaluation

Once a patient expresses the desire to pursue care with Dr. Hammer, a comprehensive medical evaluation allows the patient an opportunity to learn specifically why they are feeling like they are, and what solutions are available to meet their specific problems. The evaluation will last approximately five hours (four of those hours is direct, one-on-one interaction with Dr. Hammer).

Approximately two weeks prior to the evaluation, a comprehensive panel of blood tests is obtained. Included are measurements of all the important hormones, several markers for disease, full chemistry profile, and blood count.

Evaluation consists of:

A complete history of the patient’s complaints, medical conditions, previous surgeries, current medications, etc., is obtained.

Family history is discussed in detail in order to better understand the individuals inherited risks for certain diseases.

A complete physical examination is performed, (excluding breast and pelvic exams for women) where physical signs for disease are evaluated.

Vital statistics and body fat composition.

Patient education comprises most of the evaluation. During these two to three hours with Dr. Hammer, the patient is educated on each of the hormones, including the risks, benefits, and possible side effects. A full hour is usually devoted to just HGH and testosterone discussions themselves. Along with hormone information, detailed education on proper diet, exercise, and nutritional supplementation occurs.

Personalized program includes:

Based on all the information gathered, including physical examination, testing results, and laboratory data, Dr. Hammer presents to the patient a detailed outline of their individual, personalized, and optimal anti-aging program plan.

additional recommended testing that may be appropriate (ie., colonoscopy,
heart testing, sleep study, or other referrals)

Armed with the complete knowledge of their specific deficiencies and the science behind anti-aging medicine, the patient can then decide which, if not all, aspects of the program they would like to start. Instructions on how to properly administer each hormone will conclude the day. The patient will have all the hormones, supplements, and medications needed to begin their program that same day (two local specialized compounding pharmacies supply all that is needed).

Patient Follow-up

Equally important with the evaluation and program recommendations, is the proper and extensive follow-up of the patient. This involves office visits with Dr. Hammer every three months. During this hour-long visit, the patient is re-evaluated for weight, body fat percentage, and vital signs, along with a discussion on positive changes and any side effects that may be occurring. Blood testing is usually performed every three months for the first year, then every 6-12 months thereafter. Blood testing is required.

Keeping the hormone levels in the optimal range will enhance how you look and feel, but will also assure you maintain your present and future health.